Lilly Pulitzer For Target Picks

Much like the rest of the world I am anxiously awaiting Lilly's debut in Target happening April 19th. I have never been a huge Lilly wearer but do have a dress and a few things here and there. After perusing through the online Look Book, I am so excited and am looking forward to a few key pieces...

Anyone else looking to scoop up some Lilly in a few weeks?

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Scenes From The Weekend

Happy Monday friends! How was everyone's weekend? Mine flew by and I can't believe another work week is here. Unfortunately I worked both Saturday and Sunday but did have Friday off and managed to fit in some fun throughout the weekend.

Friday started off with some sleeping in followed by a good visit to the gym. Last week I hit the gym Tuesday- Saturday and am so happy I am finally getting back to my routine. After the gym I headed home to shower and then ventured out to the outlets. It has been a long time since I went on a bit of a shopping spree and with paying both my credit cards off last week, I thought a little reward was necessary. I hit the jackpot major and still have more things arriving in the mail. My favorite part about the outlets is how much you are able to get for such little money. 

Tan flats: Gap Outlet

Polka pants: Banana Republic Outlet

Black T-shirt: Banana Republic Outlet

Grey Slouchy Sweater: Banana Republic Oulet

Workout Tank: Gap Outlet

Nikes: Nike Outlet

Necklace and Bracelet: Francesca's Outlet

Tassel Scarf: Nordstrom Rack

All of the above I scored for such a deal as each store was offering 50-70% off almost everything. I was too excited about my new sweater and scarf that I opted to wear both for work on Saturday. (Excuse my name badge peeking through.) The rest of Friday was spent getting my eye brows done, a quick trip to the grocery store, and making a yummy solo dinner of scallops with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. I caught up on Greys and Scandal, along with a glass of wine and was in bed early. 

Once I got off Saturday I headed to Raleigh to whip up some homemade Margaritas. We followed a "skinny margarita" rita and man were they yummy. The only ingredients we used included tequila, simple syrup, and lime juice... so delicious. We also thought what better to go with our margaritas then some yummy take out fish tacos. We ordered form Dos Taquitos and decided we will definitely be back and in person next time. 

Saturday night we headed out to see one of my favorite cover bands from Richmond- Three Sheets to the Wind. They are a yacht rock cover band and by far one of my favorites to see live. 

Sunday was spent back at work and then grabbing a quick dinner and beverage while watching the Duke game. All in all it was a pretty good weekend for having to work but I am definitely counting down the hours until Thursday, which will be my Friday. Here's to hoping this week is a quick one! 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Saturday Shopping

Being that I slacked this week on my posting, I thought I would throw a Saturday post in just for fun. I have been on a major shopping kick lately, well yesterday. I hit the outlets and man did I get some great things- look for post next week. I wish I could I could say my shopping kick ended the same day it started but sure enough, a few more things have been added to my cart...

LuLu's Sandal

I love Jack Rogers just as much as the next gal, but I think we can all admit they are not the most comfortable. These sandals are too cute and currently on their way to my doors step. For less then $30, they are a major steal! 

Feelin Dandy by Benefit

Another steal for less then $30 with such great color options. High Beam is one of my favorite high lighters and I am looking forward to trying out the other products in this gift set. 

My new uniform at work has consisted of print pants, a blouse, and flats...I do not hate it. Loving these print trousers from H&M. 

Vince Sandals

Now if only these beauties would also end up in my closet, they are stunning. 

Old Navy Fedora

I am determined to make the fedora look work for me this summer. Now just to book a vacation where I can wear one! 

Hope everyone has a great weekend! 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Friday Favorites

Yet another week where I have only posted once... sorry y'all I am bound to get it together eventually. This week was a long one and while I am excited to have the day off today, I will be heading into work tomorrow and Sunday, womp womp womp. Today's agenda includes catching up on some laundry, possibly a quick trip to the outlets and a few other errands that didn't happen this past week. This week I decided to change up Friday's posts and include a few of my favorite things form this past week...

//one//

Duke Chapel. I can't believe it took me months to finally make it over to see this beauty in person. This week I attended a lecture in the chapel and couldn't get over just how breathtaking it is. From the stone work to the stained glass windows, it's absolutely amazing and something I would definitely recommend checking out if you are ever in the area. 

//two//

This week we had a few warm nights that called for wine, catching up with a friend, and lots of outside porch time. 

//three//

My go to breakfast for this week (and the last few): avocado toast with red pepper flakes, a hard boiled egg, string cheese, and of course gummy vitamins. 

//four//

After paying off 1 credit card and having less then $100 on the other, of course my first logical thought was to treat myself to something. This week I scooped up this set of Laura & Lily bracelets and can't wait for them to arrive. They were on sale through 9th & Elm for only $29 for the stack! I think they will be perfect with some bangles and maybe even some tassel bracelets thrown in. 

//five//

My choice of wine is no surprise around here, I am a Chardonnay drinker and prefer them buttery and oaky. This week I picked up this bottle from my local Whole Foods and have already finished the bottle (with the help of girls night.) Did I mention it was also less then $15? A no brainer in my book and I am sure another bottle will be picked up this weekend. 

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend Report

This weekend I had two of my best friends visiting and to say we had a good time is definitely an understatement. Friday I scooted out of work early to pick up my friend from the airport and we headed to grab a drink and lunch. We headed to Boylan brew pub so we could enjoy the view and kick off the weekend. I had their fish tacos and will definitely be getting them again. 

After lunch we headed out for a bit of afternoon shopping. I picked up a new lightweight jacket for spring from H&M (not found online) and a few new samples from Sephora to try out. 

After shopping we headed to the store to pick up some apps and wine for a girls night in later at our house. I think we went a bit overboard with food...

We had a few more friends over and had the best time catching up and enjoying each others company. While we were all together we put a few trips on the books for the summer and weekends we will be getting together. 

Saturday we slept in a bit and then all made breakfast before heading out for a walk and to enjoy the beautiful weather. We've been going for walks at least twice a weekend and love venturing out and about near our little neighborhood. True to form as in weekends past, we headed to the patio of Mellow Mushrooms and enjoyed some snacks and drinks before walking down a bit further to Hiberian. 

Saturday night we had dinner reservations at Tazza Kitchen and were excited for some good wine and yummy food. 

(Source)

The rest of Saturday was spent heading downtown for a girls night and enjoying a few more cocktails. 

Sunday we grabbed a quick rooftop brunch before it was time to head back to the airport. I absolutely loved getting to spend time with some of my best friends this weekend and am looking forward to our trips over the summer. While I wish I could say I am ready and prepared for the week ahead, unfortunately laundry and grocery shopping got put on the back burner. 

Here's to hoping this week is a quick one! 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Life in Instagram

I apologize for the silence around here again this week. The particular unit I cover in the hospital has been a very hectic and sad place, making for long days... Aka days the last thing I think about is my blog. In hopes of doing a bit of catching up- here's a few things in my view as of lately...

Current Breakfast favorite: Coffee sprinkled with cinnamon, avocado toast with red pepper flakes, and a hard boiled egg

St. Patrick's Day Ensamble: Shirt: Piko Pants: Banana Republic Scarf: Old Navy (old) Necklace: House of Harlow 

Bumper Sticker Love:

Current lunch: Tuna with greek yogurt in lettuce cups 

Bringing back some of my old makeup favorites:

Lip Balm: Smith's from Anthropologie (my favorite balm) Foundation Powder: Bare Minerals Broad Spectrum, Concearler: Tarte Creaseless Concealer

Favorite past time of lately: Sunday Funday walks with the roomies

Hope everyone is having a great week so far! 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Please & Thank You

If the fact that I was convinced it was Thursday this morning gives you any indication of the week I am having, I'm sure you can guess I am beyond ready for Friday. This past Sunday I came into work for what thought would be a few hours and ended up turning into the whole day. Since then my week has just felt a bit off and I am counting down the hours until Friday. Above are a few things I am currently lusting after it. With spring right around the corner, I am itching for some new wardrobe pieces. 

Hope everyone is having a great week!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend

Happy Friday friends! Yet another week is gone and it is the middle of March... crazy! With no plans this weekend I am hoping it will be a low key with lots of relaxing. Saturday is supposed to be rainy with thunderstorms, perfect excuse for some catching up on shows and reading. Here's this week's links and finds! 

/ Over the past few weeks I have been getting back to my love/hate relationship with the treadmill. This workout seems easy enough to fit even in even when I'm crunched for time. 

/ With all the warmer temps lately, I am majorly craving salads and more veggies, this salad look too yummy not to try. 

/ The perfect clutch for spring.

/ I am majorly becoming a fan of podcasts, especially while getting ready in the A.M, looking forward to try out a few of these. 

/ A new favorite word to add to my vocabulary.

Cheers to the weekend!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Thoughts for Thursday

Y'all I just can't seem to get my act together when it comes to the blogging front. I swear every night I sit down to write a post and then think about the other things I should be doing like laundry or packing my lunch for the next day. I also have been having major writers block lately and can't seem to come up with anything to actually write about. Anyone else go through these periods where blogging and posting seems nearly impossible? Today's post will include a random assortment of thoughts/finds/you name it. 

- It's Thursday and I still have not made it to the grocery store this week.... oops. Thanks goodness for a quick trip to Fresh Market to pick up a few things for today's breakfast and lunches. 

- Speaking of breakfast, I think I have finally found a yogurt I actually like...

I am not a yogurt person... at all. I'm not sure if it's the texture or the actual taste but something about it just does not agree with me. I've been trying to get myself to try different kinds because I know it's a great quick healthy breakfast and think I finally found the winner with Chobani Coconut Blend. 

- This week I received my tax return and while I thought I would be able to treat myself to a few things, that has not been the case. From paying different bills and making payments towards my credit card, it's nearly gone! 

- If I was going to treat myself to something, these would be a top contender

- I really need to get better about my before bed routine and get back to reading. I used to read all the time, I'm talking 2-3 books a month! Lately I have been perusing my phone and instagram before bed but starting to think it has an effect on staying asleep throughout the night. I keep hearing rave reviews about this book and might try it out this weekend. 

- This week I tried out 2 new workout spots in Raleigh- one a hot yoga studio and the other a barre class. While I totally love barre and how sore I am the next day, I am much more of a sweater and feel I get a better workout if I am sweaty and nearly out of breath. Anyone else feel this way?

- While on the subject of working out, I have yet to buy a thing from lululemon and would love to hear if their pieces are work the extra $. I tend to just buy my workout clothes from Gap, Old Navy, and sometimes TJ Maxx or Marshalls. These are super cute but also way more expensive then I would normally pay

Hope everyone is having a great week so far!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend report

Another great weekend in the books with gorgeous weather and time spent outside. I blame the time change for my delinquent weekend update but here's a bit how my weekend looked..

Friday I got off work later then expected and hit so much traffic on my way home, not exactly the start to the weekend I was looking for. Once home I hopped in the shower, poured a glass of wine and got ready for a fun night out with friends. My roommate had some cousins in town so we were eager to get out and show them around a few of our favorite spots in Raleigh. Typical me, I had the hardest time decided what to wear out and ended up taking selfies to send to my best friend for her opinion. Anyone else have the hardest time deciding what to wear? I swear from getting ready for work or even just out on the weekends- it's a major struggle. 

I ended up going with the heels because I felt the boots make my legs look unnaturally short which is hard to do when your only 5'2. 

Outfit details:

Heels: Target, Black leather leggings: Nordstroms (old) Poncho: Madison Boutique (borrowed from a friend) Necklace: House of Harlow

I also decided to change it up before we headed out and made a yummy Moscow Mule. These are my roommates favorite drinks and with her birthday approaching this week, I am thinking a set of cooper mugs are in order. 

Saturday we were up, slightly feeling the after affects of the night before, but ready to head to the NC State vs. Syracuse game. As a Pirate, I can tell you I will most likely never root for State so was pretty upset when they ended up beating Syracuse. 

Next we hopped over to Mellow Mushroom to enjoy some lunch and drinks in the sun. The weather here was absolutely amazing all weekend and it finally felt like Spring out. 

I'm not sure if you have a Mellow Mushroom where you live, but it has quickly become one of our favorite spots. Their food is nothing out of this world but they do make a good pizza, yummy margarita, and have a great beer selection. 

After Mellow we also hit up the new Carolina Ale House near our house. Again, nothing to write home about but a good spot, plus it has a roof top area that we have visited a few times now. 

Saturday night was spent cheering on Duke for the UNC vs. Duke game and I am happy to report a Duke win! After the game the crew headed out for a few drinks but I opted to stay in and was asleep within 5 minutes of my head hitting the pillow. 

Sunday we all slept in a bit before heading to one of our favorite downtown spots- Raleigh Times for a fun rooftop brunch. I've posted about this spot before and I am embarrassed to admit that I have gone once a week since I moved. 

The rest of  Sunday was spent going on a 5 mile walk around our neighborhood and grabbing an afternoon drink at the brewery just blocks from our house. 

Overall it was such a fun weekend and I am so glad we were able to spend most of it outside! 

Here's to hoping this week is just as warm and flies by!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend

Happy Friday loves! Sorry for the silence around here this week! I promise I am going to try and be better next week! This has been such a whirlwind that I am skipping weekend links and just leaving you with well wishes for you weekend! Here's to hoping for warm weather and lots of relaxing! 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

One Kings Lane Lusts

Maybe it's the start of the new month and spring being right around the corner or maybe it's wanting to decorate every inch of my new house... either option has me on a major home design kick. One of my favorite sites for home shopping is One Kings Lane. I love perusing the different pieces and things available and mentally placing them in my own home. Here's a few of my favorites currently available now...

The perfect coffee table book

Lattice Bamboo Headboard

Jamoke Rug in Gray/Blue

Devore Hide in White/Gold

Britt Brass Turner- Swoop

Palermo Pillow in Ivory

Agate Bookends- Natural 

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann

Weekend Report

I normally am pretty sad to see the weekend go come Monday, but today I am really wishing we could rewind this weekend all over again. It was filled with sleeping in, getting together with friends, and enjoying taking it easy. Here's a bit of the weekend looked like...

Friday I headed out of word, snagged a bottle of wine on my way home and spent some time relaxing. Eventually I headed out to dinner with my friend Mackenzie and her sister at Irregardless Cafe. I had never been but Kenz had heard great things so we decided to check it out. 

We ordered a few appetizers and entrees to share and had such a good time catching up and enjoying the live music. Next we headed to meet my roommate at Clockwork for a few after dinner cocktails. Clockwork has always been one of my favorite spots in Raleigh, they have a great atmosphere and make a mean cocktail. 

My roommate Stewart and I 

We hopped to a few more places in downtown Raleigh before heading home and jumping in bed. 

Saturday I slept in a bit before heading to the gym for a quick work out. Truth be told, from the snow and busy days over the past 2 weeks, it had been far too long since I had worked out. It felt great to be back in the gym definitely gave me the jump start I needed. After the gym I was craving a smoothie and decided to check out a local Raleigh spot I had heard great things about- Happy and Hale. 

Happy + Hale serves everything from salads, breakfast/veggie bowls, fresh juices, and smoothies. I ordered the Almond Brothers and absolutely loved it, packed with chia seeds, almond milk, banana, almond butter, and cacao nibs...it was amazing. 

Next it was off the to Trader Joes for some serious grocery shopping. Due to getting a bit out of control and off my routine the past few weeks, this week is back to business. I have decided a bit of a cleanse is in order and I will be eating as clean as possible. I have even planned out my meals and already have them made and ready for the week! Breakfasts will be spinach and feta egg cups with a piece of toast. Lunches will either be a salad with lettuce, mushrooms, broccoli, onion, peppers, and tomatoes or tuna mixed with greek yogurt in a lettuce wrap. Snacks are apple with almond butter or almonds. Dinners are looking like sautéed veggies and tofu, black bean burgers with sweet potato fries, and salmon with brussels sprouts. I can't wait to get back on track with my gym workouts and healthy eating... look for updates throughout the week! 

After grocery shopping I headed out to meet some friends before spending the rest of the night babysitting. While it wasn't the most exciting Saturday night, it was spent with a very cute baby and watching some good 'ol chick flicks. 

Sunday I happily slept in again and caught up on a few shows before heading out to the mall to run a few errands. I had hopes of trying out Bare Minerals new foundation- Complexion Rescue but unfortunately they were sold out in the shade I needed. Anyone else tried this foundation? I have heard amazing things and definitely looking forward to trying it myself. While at Sephora, I also picked up this cleanse I had recently heard about and wanted to give it a try. 

With claims of a flatter stomach and radiant looking skin, I figured trying it for a few days couldn't hurt. Look forward to a review by the end of the week! 

A few of my other purchases from the day included...

My favorite Anthropologie Candle 

While I am a bit embarrassed to admit I got this dress in the Juniors department, for just $12 it seemed like a no brainer. With a few wedding and baby showers coming up this spring, I thought it would be perfect paired with nude heels. 

 The rest of Sunday was spent grabbing one last indulgent meal at Raleigh Times before heading home to meal prep and do laundry. 

Overall it was such a relaxing weekend that I am wishing I could reply over and over again. With not too many plans this week, I am hoping for a short and fast week! Hope everyone has a fabulous week!

Yours truly, 

Emily Ann